HVAC issues are one of the biggest (and most expensive) surprises for homeowners and real estate investors. In this episode of Lease It or List It, Glynn Crutsinger sits down with Roy Cook of No Sweat Experts to break down what really matters—from refrigerant changes and maintenance myths to why fixing systems often beats replacing them. If you own rentals or are buying your next property, this episode could save you thousands.

Contact Roy Cook:

https://www.nosweatexperts.com/

(972) 292-8831

• HVAC systems should last 15–18 years with proper maintenance—but rental properties often shorten that lifespan due to neglect.

• Older R-22 systems are becoming obsolete, with parts harder (and more expensive) to find, making replacement planning critical for investors.

• Two simple habits matter most: change air filters regularly and keep the outdoor unit clean to prevent system strain.

• Over-filtering can be harmful—MERV ratings above 10 often restrict airflow and cause blower motor failures.

• Preventive maintenance saves money—biannual checkups can add years to a system's life and avoid emergency breakdowns.

• Smart thermostats aren't always smart—Nest units cause frequent tenant issues, while Ecobee and Honeywell models prove more reliable.

• Duct cleaning is usually a bad idea unless ducts are metal; it often causes leaks and bigger efficiency problems.

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Thinking of remodeling before you sell or lease? Pump the brakes. This episode breaks down the three projects that actually pay off—paint, lighting, and flooring—and calls out common money pits to avoid. From popcorn ceilings to carpet strategy and quick curb-appeal wins, Savannah and Glynn share practical, budget-smart advice that helps homes show better without overspending. Perfect listening for owners who want results, not regrets.

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

• Paint is king Neutral, light tones make spaces feel bigger, brighter, and photo-ready. Skip bold colors (no grays, no burgundy), spackle holes, and paint full walls—not "touch-ups."

• Lighting & fixtures modernize fast Swap dated brass/gold, cabinet hardware, and old fluorescent box lights for clean, modern fixtures—big visual upgrade, minimal cost.

• Flooring matters—strategically Ditch worn carpet downstairs in favor of laminate/tile; keep carpet upstairs for sound control. Bedrooms can go either way depending on buyer/tenant needs.

• Kill popcorn ceilings They instantly date a home and collect dust. If you're painting anyway, removing popcorn delivers outsized ROI.

• Don't over-improve kitchens & baths Massive remodels rarely pay back. Consider targeted upgrades (fixtures, frameless shower) only if they make sense for comps.

• Countertops: bonus, not mandatory Granite/quartz can help, but solid surfaces can still compete. Replace Formica if budget allows; price accordingly if you don't.

• Curb appeal shortcuts work Fresh mulch, tidy beds, and functioning blinds signal care—cheap fixes that boost first impressions.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Thinking about selling or renting your home without an agent?
This episode breaks down why For Sale By Owner often costs more than it saves—through lower sale prices, missed exposure, legal risk, and major stress. Savannah Dunn and Glynn Crutsinger explain how pricing, marketing, and professional guidance consistently put more money back in sellers' pockets. If you're debating DIY vs. hiring a pro, this is a must-listen before you decide.

Perfect for homeowners, investors, and landlords weighing their next move.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

• FSBO is far less common—and less profitable—than people think: In 2024, only 6% of homes sold For Sale By Owner, and agent-assisted homes sold for ~$55K more on average.

• "Saving on commission" often costs sellers more: FSBO homes average an 87% list-to-sale price ratio, compared to 94% with an agent, wiping out perceived savings.

• Pricing is emotional without a professional: Owners often price based on mortgages or old comps, not current market data—leading to longer days on market and price drops.

• Marketing is everything: Professional photography, detailed listings, MLS syndication, national rental platforms, and paid retargeting ads dramatically increase exposure.

• Exposure equals opportunity: Agents don't rely on luck—they create it through MLS + 30+ national sites + digital advertising that FSBO sellers can't realistically manage.

• Risk & stress skyrocket when you DIY: From legal compliance and fair housing laws to inspections, negotiations, and closing hiccups—agents protect sellers from costly mistakes.

• Unrepresented buyers often want deals: FSBO sellers limiting showings to non-agent buyers usually face lower offers and higher legal risk.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Lease It or List It with Savannah Dunn & Glynn Crutsinger: Before you list or lease your home, the details matter more than you think. From decluttering and neutralizing your space to lighting, smells, cleaning, and curb appeal—buyers and renters decide emotionally within seconds. This episode breaks down the simple, affordable steps that can protect your value, attract better offers, and help your property stand out the moment someone walks in.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

• Declutter & depersonalize: Pre-pack excess items, remove family photos, personal beliefs, and valuables so buyers or renters can picture themselves in the space—not your life.

• Think "hotel or Airbnb" vibes: Neutral, clean, and nondescript spaces feel welcoming and non-intrusive, making it easier for people to imagine living there.

• Light & smell sell homes: Bright rooms, consistent light bulbs, open blinds, clean windows, and neutral, pleasant smells create an immediate emotional connection.

• Fix the small stuff: Sticky doors, mismatched fixtures, burned-out bulbs, caulking, weatherstripping, vents, and air filters all signal how well a home has been maintained.

• Deep clean everything: Baseboards, vents, carpets, bathrooms, kitchens, and windows—professional cleaning is worth it and shows pride of ownership.

• Secure safety & valuables: Remove weapons, secure valuables, fix fences, and eliminate hazards to protect showings and peace of mind.

• Curb appeal matters first: Clean walkways, fresh doormat, working exterior lights, pest control, washed windows, and pressure-washed driveways set the tone before the door even opens.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Is now a good time to sell or lease? Savannah Dunn and Glynn Crutsinger explain that the "right time" isn't about the calendar — it's about preparation, pricing, and motivation. In Texas, the real spring market often begins in January, and even slower winter months attract highly motivated buyers and renters. Whether selling or leasing, success comes from launching with the right price, professional marketing, fast follow-up, and a strategy built around your personal goals — because homes sell in every market, and clarity is what turns timing into opportunity.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

• Spring really starts in January in Texas real estate.
  Waiting until March or April often means missing the strongest buyer and renter demand that starts as early as January and February.

• Winter isn't "dead" — it's just more serious.
  Fewer showings, but the people touring homes in winter usually have to move, making them more motivated and often better negotiators.

• You can't "test pricing" the same way on sales as you can on rentals.
  Rental pricing can be adjusted after launch based on showing activity — but sale listings must be priced right from day one or buyers smell blood in the water.

• Preparation beats timing.
  A good listing takes 1–2 weeks to prep (repairs, photos, marketing). Waiting until the last minute makes everything harder and more expensive.

• Professional photos and clear listings drive higher offers.
  Homes that look great online and clearly explain terms, deposits, and requirements get more interest and better pricing.

• Speed matters more than most people realize.
  Missed calls, delayed follow-ups, or slow responses cause buyers and tenants to move on — even if your home was perfect.

• The market changes week by week — not season by season.
  New listings, rate changes, or inventory shifts can change your best strategy fast, which is why staying flexible beats waiting.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

New construction offers peace of mind and predictability—but often at a premium with rental limits attached. Older homes deliver character and space, but demand smarter budgeting, deeper inspections, and realistic expectations. In this episode, Savannah and Glynn break down how HOAs, maintenance, renovations, and cash reserves all factor into whether a property performs as a rental or shines as a resale. Bottom line: there's no easy button—just better decisions when your strategy is clear.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

• New builds = lower maintenance, higher rules. Builder warranties, energy efficiency, and cheaper insurance are big wins—but HOA rental restrictions, rental caps, and premium prices can crush cash flow.

• Old homes bring charm…and surprises. Bigger lots and mature trees are appealing, but plumbing (cast iron!), foundations, and electrical updates can turn costly fast without proper inspections.

• HOAs matter more than buyers realize. Many new communities limit rentals, require long leases, or force owners to wait years before renting—always read the covenants first.

• Inspections aren't optional—ever. Plumbing scopes, electrical checks, and code compliance protect owners from expensive "we thought it was fixed" nightmares.

• Rentals are not HGTV projects. Over-renovating kills returns—renters care more about price, layout, and function than designer finishes.

• Reserves are non-negotiable. Whether new or old, owners need cash cushions for vacancies, repairs, or storms—lenders expect it, and reality demands it.

• There's no universal winner. The "best" choice always comes back to your plan: rent vs. sell, cash flow vs. lifestyle, short-term vs. long-term goals.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Short-term rentals promise big payouts—but in today's DFW market, high turnover, strict HOA/city rules, and rising competition mean those gains can disappear fast.
Meanwhile, long-term rentals continue to deliver steady income with fewer headaches, especially as out-of-state movers rent while they learn the area.

Bottom line: trends come and go—your success depends on location, planning, and whether you want cash flow or stability.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

Key Takeaways

• Short-term rentals can earn 30–50% more per night, but rely heavily on prime locations, demand, and timing—think stadiums, lakes, hospitals, or tourism hotspots.

• DFW short-term success has dropped as city regulations tightened, HOAs restricted rental activity, and market saturation pushed prices down.

• Hidden costs stack up fast for short-term rentals—furnishings, repairs, cleaning teams, turnover maintenance, booking management, platform fees, and potential neighbor conflicts.

• Long-term rentals offer stability, fewer surprises, and less hands-on responsibility—especially with property management and tenant insurance in place.

• Suburban long-term rentals thrive in DFW, thanks to newcomers renting 1–3 years while deciding where to buy in a region full of diverse neighborhoods.

• Short-term works best where destination travel drives demand (ski towns, beaches, major tourist cities)—locations built to support vacation traffic.

• The smartest play? Don't follow the hype—run the numbers, assess your location, and know your risk tolerance before choosing a strategy.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor

Before you lease it, list it, or hold onto it, ask yourself the right questions.

In this episode, Savannah Dunn and Glynn Crutsinger walk through five critical questions that every homeowner and investor should answer before making a real estate move. From financial goals and market timing to risk tolerance and the reality of being a landlord, this self-interview style conversation breaks down how smart planning—and honest answers—can save you thousands and protect your sanity.

Smart decisions start with better questions.

Contact:

Savannah:

https://app.elify.com/vbc/hzdm5karnn

Glynn:

https://www.rpmonesource.com/

Key Takeaways:

• What is your real financial goal?
  Are you after cash now, long-term income, liquidity, or passive income? Every decision changes based on this answer.

• How does your life stage impact the decision?
  Age, family needs, schools, commute, and legacy planning all matter—and they should drive your strategy, not emotions.

• How long do you realistically plan to hold the property?
  Most owners move every 7–10 years, but holding vs. renting after a move are very different paths with different risks.

• What is the market actually doing right now?
  Buyer vs. seller markets matter—but so do landlord vs. tenant markets. Pricing wrong can cost you months of vacancy and thousands lost.

• Do you truly want to be a landlord?
  Late-night emergency calls, legal responsibilities, emotional stress, and maintenance costs make this far from "passive" for most people.

• Bonus Reality Check: What's your risk tolerance?
  Roofs, AC units, insurance deductibles, storms, and surprise repairs can quickly derail cash flow if you're not financially prepared.

Recorded at the Blue Mic Studios podcast production company:

https://www.bluemicstudios.com/

#realestatetips, #realestateadvice, #realestategoals, #housegoal, #architecture, #interiordesign, #hometour, #podcast #clientstories #realestateindustry #texasrealtors #realestatemarket #realestatesector #propertyinvestmentadvisor